Meta Platforms officially conducted a significant global layoff drive on May 20, 2026, impacting over 8,000 employees, which represents approximately 10% of its global workforce. This decision is part of the company's ongoing restructuring strategy, aimed at streamlining operations and bolstering future investments, particularly in artificial intelligence.
Severance and Support for Affected Employees
Employees whose roles were eliminated have begun receiving emails detailing their severance packages and transition support. According to internal communications, Meta is offering a robust severance plan to aid affected workers.
- Base Pay: Employees will receive 16 weeks, or four months, of their base salary.
- Additional Service Pay: For every year of continuous employment at Meta, workers will receive an additional two weeks of pay. For example, an employee with five years of service would receive an extra ten weeks of salary.
- Medical Insurance: Meta will continue to cover medical insurance for impacted employees and their families for up up to 18 months following the layoff.
While similar compensation packages are expected globally, the specific terms may vary based on local laws and policies in different countries.
Broader Restructuring and AI Focus
Beyond the layoffs, Meta is also undertaking a significant internal restructuring, reassigning approximately 7,000 employees. These individuals are being shifted to projects primarily focused on artificial intelligence development, AI tools, and AI-driven operations. This move underscores Meta's intensified commitment to AI as a core strategic direction.
Reports suggest the company might conduct another round of layoffs later in the year, potentially affecting an additional 10% of its global workforce. However, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has stated in a memo that he is not expecting further layoffs.